Beyond The Backstreet – The abortion Act turns 50

The Abortion Act Turns 50!

The 1967 Act is almost 50 years old and we want to mark this historic victory for the pro-choice movement. It deserves to be recognised as an important milestone for feminism but also as part of British social history.

We want to celebrate and commemorate the efforts and commitment of those key to making the Act possible. We want to tell untold histories of social change about ordinary people doing extraordinary things. We want to hear from you!

Moreover, this is not simply about celebration, but also an awareness raising campaign to educate the public about the Abortion Act and its limitations. We believe that the current legislation, almost 50 years old, is ready to be revisited to be made fit for the 21st century. We need to remind ourselves that the battle isn’t fully won – it is the beginning, not the end, as there is still work to be done.

Abortion Rights is planning a series of high-profile events over the next 16 months to highlight the anniversary. We are starting the celebrations on January 21st with a screening of the movie Vera Drake, to reflect on women’s experiences of abortion prior to the Act. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with Imelda Staunton & Mike Leigh Chaired by Shappi Khorsandi, More information will be shared soon about location and tickets on our Facebook event.

We are also organising parliamentary drinks, a screening of Dirty Dancing, our AGM and public meeting, club nights, seminars, workshops, panel discussions, and more! We will keep you informed about the details as they come. We hope to see you all there!